I do not attend church. I do not read the scriptures. I tried to read the bible but found the book a bit sexist and conservative. Now that I have offended many of you let’s continue.

I do believe in God. I do believe that Jesus died on the cross for our sins. I do believe in a hell and the devil. I do believe that Jesus had 12 homies; oh, I’m sorry, disciples. I do believe that Moses and his brother, the Pharaoh, had an epic brotherly fight. Seriously, they needed some separate “me” time. But instead they thought death, and the plague was a better idea. You know how brothers can be.

I also believe that not everyone should have the same beliefs I do. My faith is not the number one faith choice in the world.

When I do attend church and the man, who I guess is the “pastor,” (that’s code for “I didn’t know what else to do with my life, so I attended Bible college, and I am just giving you my opinion on the Bible, in hopes you don’t know anything”) asks, “what has God done for you?”, I have to roll my eyes. I’m like…um…he created the world. So I think he is done.

So, given all of the above, why do I celebrate Lent? Well, it’s a time of the year when I take a step back and think about why I was created. It’s my “me” time with God. We have wonderful conversations.

“I am sorry the world is going to hell.”
“Oh, don’t worry. You all have been killing each other for centuries.”
“Touché God, Touché.”

I practice self-discipline by giving up a possession. I practice love by forgiving people.

Lent reminds me that when it’s all said and done, I am not 100% in control of my life – which is fine by me. I like to see what hidden surprises and tricks he has for me.

Hugs and Smiles,
Nicole